Florida football is heating up the recruiting trail, and one of the nation's top offensive tackles has the Gators on his summer calendar. Layton von Brandt, a four-star prospect from the 2027 class, announced Sunday his official visit itinerary—and Gainesville is first on the list.
Standing 6-foot-6.5 and weighing in at 281 pounds, von Brandt hails from Appoquinimink High School in Middletown, Delaware. He's set to kick off his official visits with the Gators from May 28-30. From there, he'll make stops at Penn State (June 2-4), Auburn (June 12-14), and wrap things up with Notre Dame (June 19-21). The rising senior plans to make his commitment decision around July 1.
Von Brandt's connection to Florida runs deep, thanks to his relationship with offensive line coach Phil Trautwein. Interestingly, Trautwein originally recruited von Brandt to Penn State—a school the lineman decommitted from last October. But after visiting the Swamp on March 24, the Gators appear to have made a strong impression.
"Florida is a great school with great coaches," von Brandt told Gators Online. "They already have a great culture. There is just nothing bad to say about Florida."
What really stood out during his visit? The Gators' player development resources. "The developmental aspect at Florida with Coach Traut is still a huge factor for me. Now that I've visited, I know I like the culture that Coach Sumrall is building. I also like the scheme Coach Faulkner runs offensively," von Brandt said.
He was particularly impressed with Florida's holistic approach to preparing athletes for the next level. "Florida is really laid out as a place that has everything there to help you be a pro. Their weight room is awesome. I talked to their nutritionist and had a great conversation. They can offer success with life after football. I think about the degree that you can get from a top-five public school from Florida. There's a lot of pro-ready stuff at Florida."
Von Brandt also noted that head coach Jon Sumrall's authenticity with his family made a lasting impact. With a decision looming in just a few months, the Gators have positioned themselves as serious contenders for this blue-chip lineman. Stay tuned—this recruitment is just getting started.